Thermoelectric coupling model for asphalt mixtures based on microwave heating

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Sun, Tongsheng^a

Affiliations: [a] School of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, Anhui Polytechnic University, Wuhu 241000, Anhui, China. Tel.: +86 553 287 1252; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: In order to improve recycling quality of asphalt mixtures based on microwave heating, thermoelectric coupling theory is researched. Heat conduction equation is built according to Fourier's Law. Series model, parallel model and Maxwell model are studied to solve thermal conductivity of asphalt mixtures. Radiation field model of pyramidal horn antenna is set up and mean value of electric field intensity is measured by experiment. Thermoelectric coupling model is built on the basis of dielectric property of asphalt mixtures. Numerical simulation is performed for the model. It is found that influence of asphalt-aggregate ratio on temperature field is not distinct. Average temperature of asphalt mixtures is related to microwave power and increases with microwave power linearly. The asphalt mixtures using diorite as aggregate have a strongest adsorption capability to energy. The result can simulate hot in-place regeneration process, and has important significance to improve regeneration quality of asphalt mixtures.

Keywords: Asphalt mixtures, microwave heating, thermoelectric coupling, thermal conductivity, temperature field

DOI: 10.3233/JAE-131722

Journal: International Journal of Applied Electromagnetics and Mechanics, vol. 43, no. 4, pp. 353-363, 2013